Outcomes in Continuing Pregnancies Diagnosed with a Severe Fetal Abnormality and Implication of Antenatal Neonatology Consultation: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

Purpose: To describe a population choosing to continue their pregnancy despite a severe fetal abnormality and to evaluate the role of antenatal neonatology consultation in perinatal decision-making. Methods: A 10-year (2005-2015) retrospective descriptive study in a single Multidisciplinary Prenatal Diagnosis Center in South France. A series of pregnancies with severe fetal abnormalities were collected by a person outside the decision making process and/or the child's care. Results: Thirty-nine pregnancies were included, among which 12 couples chose the perinatal palliative care. In total, there were 25 live births (10 later died, with median of survival of 52.5h [16-943.5]); only five infants received a palliative care plan at birth. Conclusion: The choice to continue a pregnancy diagnosed with severe fetal pathology is on the rise in France. Treatment options point to standardize perinatal palliative care provided by trained perinatal professionals using standardized practices.